Sports

Knicks Struggle To Recreate Heat

MIAMI, FL – JANUARY 27: Amare Stoudemire #1 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket against Udonis Haslem #40 of the Miami Heat during the game on January 27, 2012 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)

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NEW YORK (CBSMiami) – When the Miami Heat were constructed in 2010, it was said other teams would try to copy the formula for bringing together three superstars. The New York Knicks have tried a similar path; but while some expected them to contend, the Knicks have been a complete failure.

It was last season that the Knicks first acquired power forward/center Amar’e Stoudemire to lead the team. But, the Knicks became infatuated with Carmelo Anthony and traded most of their franchise for him during last season.

While the Knicks did make it to the playoffs last season, they continued their streak of not winning a playoff game. For comparison sake, the New York Giants have won eight NFL playoff games since the Knicks last won a playoff game.

Heading into the current season, the Knicks added what they thought would be the final piece of the puzzle to boost their defense and push them into the same discussion with the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Chicago Bulls.

The Knicks amnestied point guard Chauncey Billups in order to sign center Tyson Chandler. The former Dallas Maverick is known for his defensive stopping ability and was expected to help take defensive pressure off Stoudemire.

While the Knicks have never been one to play defense under coach Mike D’Antoni, the addition of Chandler was seen as a defensive benefit that could help against teams like Indiana, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Orlando Magic.

Unfortunately for the Knicks, the additions haven’t done anything to help the team get into playoff contention. If the season ended today, the Knicks would be on the outside looking in for the playoffs, with a record of just 9-15.

For comparison sake, the Cleveland Cavaliers, who last year were the worst team in the NBA, currently have a higher winning percentage than New York.

Needless to say, at 9-15, plenty of fans and some in the media are calling for Dantoni to be canned as head coach. But, according to Newsday, D’Antoni’s job remains safe for now, as long as the losing doesn’t continue.

The Knicks desperately need a point guard to help distribute the ball in D’Antoni’s offense. They will get some help when guard Baron Davis finally returns from injury. The Knicks may also land J.R. Smith when he returns from China, but his help may be minimal.

Still, pinning their hopes on an oft-injured Baron Davis to spark a winning streak in New York is dangerous. But, with the season only 24 games in, the Knicks have plenty of time to right the ship and make the playoffs.

Otherwise, D’Antoni will be looking for a new job and New York’s fascination with Carmelo and Amar’e will change to what do we have to do to get Dwight Howard?